Congratulations on 50 years of Distrelec! Looking back: What has been the most significant technological development of your company?

The most significant technological development was definitely our investment in digitalization. The webshop in particular, but also our eCommerce solutions, have been and continue to be significantly improved, always with a view to achieving the highest possible customer satisfaction.

Is there an absolute 'bestseller' and what makes it so?

We have a very broad range of products and always strive to be a reliable partner for our customers. As we are strongly focused on MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Operation), for example, the areas of electromechanics, automation and measurement technology are particularly noteworthy. Ultimately, our focus is on customer satisfaction and we are satisfied when this is also perceived by our customers. In this respect, we are particularly pleased that WEKA recently awarded us the 'Distributor of the Year 2023' award in the 'Online Distribution' category. Customers voted us as their number 1 in all three subcategories 'Digitalization, Sustainability and Supply chain performance', which proves to us that this is also perceived and rewarded by our customers.

In 50 years, it hasn't all been rosy - what do you think was the most difficult time for the company?

Previous economic crises, but also the corona period with all its side effects - such as the shortage of components - have repeatedly presented us with challenges as a company. As a result, we have gained strength by adapting to constantly changing situations.

What is the roadmap for the next ten to 15 years?

The aim is to continue to grow as a high-service distributor across all sectors. Through our new parent company, RS Group plc, in particular, we see a number of opportunities and synergies that will take us forward as the Distrelec Group.

What technological trends do you see that are or will become important for Distrelec?

On the one hand, there is a particular focus on the responsible and sustainable use of resources, which plays a particularly important role in the products we sell, but will also play an even greater role in the future. On the other hand, digitalization is of course still important, which also includes the topic of AI or artificial intelligence.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge in the coming years, in terms of business and/or technology?

Seizing the opportunities on the market - for example through eMobility - and, coupled with the constant focus on digitalization, further increasing the satisfaction of our customers.